Close up of filter

Most of the time, changing you’re your furnace filter every three months would be sufficient to ensure a good flow of clean air throughout your home. When the filter gets clogged with dust or debris, it can affect not only the air quality, but also the efficiency of your furnace and subsequently your monthly bills.

And while the three-month rule of thumb is usually a good one to follow, there are times when the furnace filter needs to be changed more often. Here are some events and activities that may require a quick filter change.

Doors and Windows that are Opened Frequently

When you leave doors and windows open, it stands to reason that dust and other contaminants will find their way inside and eventually to your furnace filter as air is circulated through the house. Both your heating and cooling systems use the filter, so this can be an issue at any time of the year. If this is the case in your home, make a point of checking your filter more often to ensure it doesn’t get too dirty.

Smokers in the House

There are many reasons to keep smoking outside, and the cleanliness of your furnace filter is one of them. One smoker may not make too big a difference, but if there are multiple smokers in the house then you should adjust your furnace filter changing schedule to accommodate the extra debris that accumulates.

Pets in the House

If you have pets in your home, you will have to change the furnace filter more often than normal. If you have pets that are heavy shedders, then the time limit will be even shorter and it will decrease for every additional pet you have under your roof.

Cat and dog cuddling and sleeping

Family Members with Allergies 

Since the dust and debris that coat your filter can end up being distributed throughout the house, it’s wise to change the filter more often if you have family members with allergies or asthma. The last thing you want is your loved ones to struggle when there is a quick solution to the problem. 

Some Signs the Filter Needs to be Changed 

Aside from people in your home being bothered by poor air quality, there are some telltale signs that it’s time to change your furnace filter. Some of the most common ones include: 

  • A furnace filter that is visibly dirty where you can no longer see the filter material 
  • Your home is dustier than normal 
  • Your heating or cooling system is running more often than it normally does 
  • There are unusual odours near your HVAC unit 
  • Your heating or cooling bills are higher than normal even though you haven’t increased the use of the system  

Keeping your home clean is as easy as changing your furnace filter. When you need a quality furnace filter, to ensure that your indoor air quality is great all year round, contact Advantage Airtech ClimateCare. 

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